Warm fires. Friendly faces. Eggnog. Carols. The smell of green branches when all outside is gray. These are some of the things that make the season, and its memories.
At our church, we have a few traditions that you will find sprinkled throughout this month’s newsletter: The Clara Barton Guild dinner. My family’s Holiday Open House. Christmas Caroling for all ages. And of course, our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. That night, our sanctuary will be filled with folks who come for the wonderful music, the glow of the candles, and most of all the warmth and spirit of community. I hope you will be among them, that evening, and that you will also partake of the many other opportunities to celebrate the season with the Heritage family this year. (There are even two worship services on December 24!)
As we celebrate the holiday season, however, don’t forget that this time of year can be bittersweet for many people. Reminders of loss – whether recent or long-ago – can be painful. Loneliness can be profound. Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures challenge even the most cheerful among us. Let us remember to be gentle and compassionate to one another. Be sure to offer an extra hug, an extra smile, and to go the extra mile, not only with those in our Heritage community, but also co-workers, people on the streets, and strangers whom you meet in the store (you will be in the store, I am sure). Offer the Love that is the Spirit of our church to everyone, of every age, this holiday season.
Happy Holidays! I’ll see you at church!
Namaste,
Rev. Bill